Living with a chronic condition can be challenging, but with the right tools and mindset, it’s possible to take control and improve quality of life for both the patient and their caregiver.  Chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis or dementia, are long-term health issues that require ongoing management.  This blog not only explains what chronic conditions are but also shares 10 practical tips to help you stay on top of your care.  These strategies can empower you to navigate your journey with confidence and ease.

What is a Chronic Condition?

A chronic condition lasts more than one year and requires ongoing medical treatment, intervention or lifestyle changes.  They typically develop gradually, rather than suddenly.  A chronic condition can affect one’s ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, toileting, eating, transferring, and continence.  It may limit one’s ability to function at a high level and can require assistance from others to perform ADLs.  While many chronic conditions do not have a cure, they can often be managed effectively with the right education, support and care.

Examples of Chronic Conditions (this is not an all-inclusive list)

Diabetes
Heart disease
High blood pressure
COPD
Arthritis
Obesity
Dementia | Alzheimer’s Disease
Parkinson’s Disease
Stroke
Cancer  

10 Tips for Managing a Chronic Condition

1.  Educate Yourself

Fully understand your diagnosis, talk with your doctor and nurse, learn the pathophysiology, and learn the treatment options.  Follow sources that have up-to-date information and data.  Join support groups, such as those offered locally, in-person or on-line.  Utilize online resources that have a wealth of information related to your particular condition, such as the Parkinson’s Foundation or Alzheimer’s Assocation.  You aren’t alone in having your condition, so you want to hear what others are doing to manage it.  You may learn something new.  Education leads to better-informed decisions and outcomes.

2.  Attend Medical Appointments

Attend medical appointments at recommended intervals.  If you feel good; great, but don’t miss appointments.  This is still a valuable time to check in and discuss what is working, or maybe not working.  Follow your provider’s recommendation for lab studies, imaging studies and other pertinent testing.  

Prepare for the appointment by writing down questions ahead of time.  You may have a limited amount of time with the provider, so have your thoughts gathered.  Take important information along, such as a list of symptoms (are they better, worse, the same?), test results and other data like blood pressure or glucose readings.  Always take a complete medication list including any over the counter or herbal remedies and supplements that you may be taking.

During the appointment review your questions and take notes about the answers.  Don’t leave the appointment until you have the answers you are searching for.  Ask a family member, friend or advocate to accompany you if you get nervous or have trouble remembering important information.

3.  Monitor Symptoms

Consider what needs to be monitored at home – blood pressure readings, blood glucose readings, weight readings, daily caloric intake, oxygen levels, etc.  Maintain a log of this important information and share it with your provider so they have objective data.  This will help them develop the best treatment plan for you.

4.  Medication Awareness

Be well-informed about the medication that’s been prescribed.  Clarify the instructions with the provider and take it exactly as ordered.  Some medication can have negative effects if it isn’t taken as it’s meant to be, and some medication cannot be stopped abruptly.  Consider asking these important questions any time a new medication is prescribed.

5.  Communication

Communicate the details from your appointment with family, friends and loved ones so everyone is on the same page.  This will provide you with additional support.  Be sure that all of the healthcare providers on your team are aware of what the other is managing.  Many people have several providers, such as primary care, cardiology, endocrinology, oncology, etc. and only one provider should be treating one specific condition.  Keep your provider updated on all changes by using their preferred method of communication (patient portal, email, phone, etc.).  

When possible, use only one pharmacy.  This streamlines your medication orders and refills and helps detect potential drug interactions.  The pharmacist is a valuable member of your healthcare team so ask them any additional questions you may have about new medication.  They are also a wonderful resource for cost saving options such as mail order, generic medication, and any coupons that may be available.

6.  Nutrition and Hydration

Ask your provider if there is a special diet to follow (i.e. no added salt for high blood pressure) or if there is a recommended daily amount of water to drink.  Make wise food choices, maintain a well-balanced diet and follow your healthcare provider’s suggestion.  Avoid foods that may trigger a flare up in symptoms.  For example, avoid acidic, fatty and spicy foods if you have a diagnosis of GERD.  

7.  Exercise

Always obtain approval from your provider before beginning an exercise program.  If approved, attempt to exercise daily at an appropriate level for you.  This could mean aerobic exercise, walking, chair exercise, yoga, dancing or something else.  Find an exercise that you enjoy, because you are more likely to stick with it if you like it.  Exercise improves strength, balance, flexibility and endurance.  Remember, any movement is better than no movement.    

8.  Mental Health

Chronic conditions can be stressful and cause a change in personality or mood.  Pay attention to your mental health and address changes promptly.  Some conditions that can result in mental health changes include pain, chronic fatigue, and depression.  
Make sure your pain is well managed, develop strategies for improved sleep at night, and inform your provider if you have symptoms of depression.  If you are feeling stressed, acknowledge that it’s okay to be, and learn to develop coping mechanisms.  If you are feeling isolated and withdrawn, try to engage in socialization as this is proven to boost mood.

9.  Develop a Routine

A routine improves consistency when managing a chronic condition.  Attempt to go wake up and go to bed around the same time.  Consider developing a schedule for taking medication, monitoring your symptoms, following a specific diet, and incorporating exercise.  Always include time for enjoyment and relaxation on daily basis – this is important for both the patient and their caregiver.

10.  Invest in Yourself

Secure supplemental professional care when needed because this can improve overall health and wellness while reducing the incidence of hospitalizations.  Available resources based on your specific needs may include a dietician or nutritionist, fitness trainer, physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech therapist, massage therapist, home care or respite services or a nurse consultant or nurse case manager.  It’s okay to ask for help – it’s a sign of strength, not weakness.  I always say that asking for help is an act of courage and self-awareness.  It shows that you value your well-being and have the strength to ask for help.

Conclusion

Managing a chronic condition is a continuous process that requires patience, knowledge, and support.  By educating yourself, staying consistent with medical appointments, monitoring your symptoms, and ensuring your care team communicates effectively, you can take proactive steps toward better health.  Remember, your health is an investment, not an expense.  With these 10 tips, you can approach your condition with a sense of control and a commitment to living your best life.  If you need help managing a chronic condition, please contact us today for your free consultation.